Sail Nauticus Academy

The Sail Nauticus Academy is our flagship program, created to provide a life-changing experience for underserved youth in our local community. Through a partnership with Norfolk Public Schools, students are given the opportunity to participate in a program that promotes STEM activities, career development opportunities and life skills through the sport of sailing.

A prospective Academy student begins by applying in 5th grade. Applications are available at all Norfolk Public elementary schools, and a member of our staff gives a presentation at each school during the winter months. Of the hundreds of applications received, each will be thoroughly reviewed. At the end of this process, we will select our future Norfolk Public Schools 6th grade Academy students.

6th Grade

The 6th grade year at Academy focuses on an introduction to the world of sailing. During the winter months, students learn the basics of swimming and water safety to build their overall confidence on the water. Along with the basics of sailing, our kids will learn life skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork.

7th Grade

Our 7th grade curriculum focuses on safety and preparedness while enhancing the sailing skills they learned in 6th grade. During the winter, they learn more advanced swimming and water safety techniques as well as take part in the American Red Cross' Community First Aid and CPR course.

8th Grade

For their final year, we work to prepare our 8th grade students to pass a basic sailing competency practical, similar to the test we give our adult members. The real treat for these kids is during the winter. Students get to learn how to construct functional wooden boats. This is activity incorporates a good amount of the STEM curriculum and helps give kids a better understanding of the time and skill required to assemble a boat.

Beyond Academy

Enrollment in the Academy comes with a one year commitment. To participate again in their 7th, then 8th, grade year, each student must complete the basic requirements for their grade level. Upon completion of their 8th grade year, our kids will have the opportunity to return as volunteers to enhance their sailing and teaching skills. Our goal is to turn a handful of these students into junior sailing instructors.